Climbing Mount Christoffel: start before seven

372 metres sounds modest, and it is, until you remember you are climbing in a place where it is already 28 degrees at eight in the morning. Mount Christoffel is the highest peak on Curaçao and the climb is short but serious: an hour and a half up, an hour down, and the last stretch is scrambling over rock with your hands.

Why you start early

The park stops letting people onto the mountain after a certain hour, and that is for your own good. There is no shade on the route and no water. We start at seven, which puts you at the top before half past eight with the descent still at a reasonable temperature. Start at ten and it stops being a walk and becomes a test.

What you see from the top

On a clear day the whole island, from the north coast to Willemstad, and sometimes Venezuela on the horizon. There is no viewing platform and no sign. You stand on the rock and that is it.

Practical

Bring at least a litre and a half of water per person. Shoes with grip, not trainers with a smooth sole, because the last section really is scrambling. There is an entry fee for Christoffel Park, and the same park has flatter walking routes if the summit is more than you want.

The park has white tailed deer and a great many lizards. Early morning is also the best chance of seeing either.